Finals not good enough for Cleary

The young Panthers star knows he let the bright lights of NRL finals footy consume him during his first two post-season campaigns in 2016 and 2017 as Penrith bowed out in the semi-finals.

But after his successful Origin series with Brad Fittler's Blues, the 20-year-old Panthers playmaker says he's no longer just happy to be in the finals.

Cleary is ready to take the next step in September.

"I think playing those big games has definitely helped," Cleary said.

"Playing alongside Jimmy (Maloney) obviously helps with that as well.

"In the last two years I think maybe I fell into the trap where I was happy to be there and experience it.

"But this year I want to take it a step further and get through to the second last week.

"That is my main focus at the moment."

The Origin experience changes a player. (Brett Costello)

Cleary says the intensity of Origin taught him to make the most of his chances, especially under pressure.

He hopes to use these lessons to ice Friday night's semi-final against Cronulla.

"I think it is all about staying patient," he said.

"There are not a lot of points in those tight finals games and Origins, so if something doesn't come off the first time you have to stick with it and trust that it will come late in the game when the fatigue sets in.

"You also don't get as many opportunities, so when the opportunities arise you have to go full force with it."